'They Have The Skills, Dedication And Spirit Of Teamwork Required...'

Three Canadian Air Force pilots were selected last week to be the newest members of 431 (Air Demonstration) Squadron -- better known as the Canadian Forces Snowbirds.

After enduring an arduous two-week selection process, the newest Snowbirds (right) are: Captain Shawn McCaughey, Snowbird 2, of Candiac, Quebec; Captain Denis Beaumont, Snowbird 5, of Loretteville, Quebec; and Captain Christian Dallamore, Snowbird 9, of Fort Fraser, British Columbia.

Also new to the team is Captain Jody McKinnon of Almonte, Ontario, who was selected as Snowbird 11, Team Coordinator.

"To successfully complete a Snowbird tryout is a tremendous accomplishment and a dream come true for our pilots and technicians," said Snowbirds commanding officer and team lead Major Ian McLean. "Our newest team members have proven that they have the skills, dedication and spirit of teamwork required to represent the men and women in the Canadian Forces with the highest degree of professionalism."

According to the Snowbirds website, pilots chosen to fly for the elite Canadian aerial demonstration team come from various military backgrounds, including maritime patrol, maritime helicopter, tactical aviation, tactical fighter, transport and search and rescue squadrons.

Next up for the team will be an intensive six-month training program, practicing different maneuvers and formations, in order to prepare for the 2006 airshow season.

Under the leadership and guidance of Maj. McLean -- and alongside their veteran teammates -- the new Snowbird pilots will work to solidify their skills in formation and aerobatic flying in time for the 2006 season.

FMI: www.snowbirds.forces.gc.ca